The Doctor Edition of Frankenstein is a testament to ambitious artistry, meticulously crafted to embody the spirit of the doctor and his profound profession. Limited to just 300 numbered and signed copies, this edition stands as a unique collectible, deeply intertwined with its sister edition, much like the inseparable bond between Victor Frankenstein and his creation.
The book’s design immediately captivates, starting with covers conceived to evoke an operating table. Aluminium takes center stage, quarter-bound in luxurious black leather, and accented with a spine blocked in gleaming silver foil. A striking feature is the inclusion of a genuine surgeon’s needle, embedded on the front cover, alongside laser-engraved details that further solidify its Doctor Edition identity. These covers are not merely protective layers; they are a bold declaration of the edition’s thematic core.
Upon opening the book, readers are greeted by breathtaking handmade marbled endpapers, the work of the renowned Freya Scott of Paperwilds. These are crafted in a cellular pattern, an intentional nod to Victor Frankenstein’s scientific pursuits. Even the title page holds a hidden surprise, adding another layer of intrigue for the discerning collector.
However, the heart of the Frankenstein Doctor Edition lies in its innovative illustration concept. Understanding Frankenstein as a narrative of connection and its tragic absence, the creators devised a system to visually represent this theme. Each illustration initially depicts moments where the Monster encounters humans, invariably leading to rejection and isolation. These scenes are meticulously screen-printed by hand with a special thermochromic ink. Upon touch, this ink transforms, becoming transparent and revealing a hidden, offset-printed illustration beneath. This underlying image offers a poignant glimpse into an alternate narrative – a world where acceptance replaced fear, and connection triumphed over alienation. The seamless integration of these two illustrative phases is a remarkable achievement, flawlessly executed by the talented illustrator Yana Adamović. The dual-layered artwork invites readers to actively engage with the story’s themes, offering a tactile and visual metaphor for the Monster’s yearning for understanding.
Further enhancing the reading experience are beautifully designed drop caps for each chapter opening. And for a uniquely themed bookmark, a scalpel-shaped marker allows readers to symbolically “cut” into the narrative, holding their place within the story.
The Frankenstein Doctor Edition is housed in a solander box, crafted to resemble a doctor’s tool bag from the era depicted in the novel. Opening this bespoke box reveals a luxurious velvet interior, ensuring the book’s safe and elegant presentation.
Production and Materials: A Commitment to Excellence
The creation of this Frankenstein edition demanded exceptional materials to match its conceptual ambition.
Solander Box: The protective solander box is bound in a robust material composed of 85% genuine leather fibers, accented with a metal title plate on the spine. The interior is lined with the same recycled leather and plush purple velvet, providing superior protection.
Book Binding and Cover: The book itself is quarter-bound in the finest black goatskin leather, sourced from Didier Lieutard in France and finished with aniline for a supple texture. The aluminium covers, with their embedded surgeon’s needle and silver foil spine blocking, are a hallmark of this edition.
Endpapers and Paper: The cellular-patterned marbled endpapers are individually handmade using a spectrum of colors, including metallic hues, to mimic a microscopic view. The text is printed offset on premium Fedrigoni Savile Row 100g paper, chosen for its rich texture and feel.
Thermochromic Ink: The groundbreaking thermochromic ink used for the illustrations is screen-printed by hand over each image. Reacting to temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius, it responds to human touch, revealing the hidden artwork beneath. This reversible ink ensures the book’s intended appearance under normal conditions, while offering an interactive element.
Binding and Typeface: The book is smyth sewn with black thread and glued for maximum durability. The Brioni typeface, known for its readability and elegance, is used throughout.
Scalpel Bookmark: The unique scalpel bookmark is made from embossed metallic paper, adding a final touch of thematic detail.
Shipping and Rarity
Amaranthine Books prioritizes the safe and swift delivery of these exceptional editions, utilizing DHL Express for shipping. This ensures each book is tracked and arrives directly to the collector within 7-10 business days, often sooner.
Each Frankenstein Doctor Edition is one of only 300 numbered copies, with a few additional publisher’s copies reserved for project contributors, further solidifying its rarity and collectibility.
Explore more images of this extraordinary edition and its intricate illustrations in our gallery. Photography by Dino Šertović.
